The Reliable Standard
Asphalt shingles cover most Minnesota homes for good reason—they work. They’re affordable, proven, and when installed properly, they protect your home for 20-30 years through brutal winters and humid summers.
What you get:
Modern architectural shingles aren’t like the old flat ones. They have depth, shadow lines, and come in dozens of colors. They look good, perform well, and cost less than other materials.
Durability in Minnesota climate:
$6-$8 per square foot installed
$15,000-$20,000 for complete replacement
Most residential applications, proven performance, reasonable budget
Premium Natural Beauty
Cedar shake roofs have that unmistakable look—rustic, textured, and distinctly high-end. Real cedar isn’t just about aesthetics though. It’s naturally resistant to rot and insects, with insulation properties that synthetic materials can’t match.
What makes cedar special:
Cedar shakes require more upkeep than asphalt—periodic cleaning and treatment to maintain appearance and longevity. But if you appreciate natural materials and traditional craftsmanship, there’s nothing quite like a cedar roof.
Maintenance reality:
$15-$20 per square foot installed
$40,000-$50,000 for complete replacement
30-40 years with proper maintenance
Premium aesthetics, historic homes, natural material preference, properties where traditional appearance matters
Maximum Durability
Steel roofing handles everything Minnesota throws at it—heavy snow loads, high winds, hail, ice dams. It sheds snow naturally, resists fire, and often outlasts the house itself.
Performance advantages:
Modern steel roofing doesn’t look industrial unless you want it to. Standing seam profiles work with contemporary homes. Steel shingles that mimic traditional shakes or tiles fit any architectural style.
What to know:
Styles available:
$20-$25 per square foot installed
$40,000-$50,000+ (Wide range based on style and complexity)
50-70+ years
Long-term investment, extreme durability needs, modern aesthetics, eco-conscious homeowners, properties prone to ice dams
